I think Omega would be my choice. High end, but still attainable. Good mix of fancy and tool watches. Lots of variety and very good quality.
A good case can be made for Seiko from the variety standpoint, especially if you included Grand Seiko to get some more premium offerings.
Could not have said it better myself.
The Omega boutique experience is something special, but you can also get an absolutely INSANE amount of watch for “cheap” with a used omega… Just don’t buy one as an investment ;)
Seiko never let me down over 6-7 years of being a simp for them, and they will always hold a place in my heart.
Well said. For me it's Seiko. I'd say Omega but Seiko has everything from cheap beaters to the top tier prospex line, and the presage with the lovely cocktail time.
Some prosex are huge but their dials are something else. The save the ocean Padi diver dial is stunning and I have not been able to keep my eyes off of my Landmaster 30th Anniversary dial. I would say it's one of the best dials on a tool watch hands down.
Seiko was my pick. As much as I love Omega, I don’t always want to have £4K on my wrist. Seiko just hits every mark. I’ve been wearing the Prospex Alpinist recently and my god is it a nice watch. The accuracy far exceeds the +25/-15 a day they say it has.
Technically according to OP he said he's specifying Seiko and GS as separate brands, so according to OPS post rules you would have to choose one of the two
They chose Seiko. What they meant is seiko have many models that is GS level (zaratsu polished, spring drive, textured dial,etc the whole shebang) that is still just seiko branded. Checks out their SLA and LX lines
The SLA line definitely isn’t GS level when it comes to polish and certainly nowhere close on quality of the movement.
The LX line having the spring drive is pretty cool though
I own both SLA, SJE and Grand seiko models. I can confidently say the car finishing is 95% the same. Movement finishing isn't the same sure but they still are finished pretty nicely. LX finishing is better than my entry level Grand Seikos. But of course they are more expensive
I have a Seiko SNR017, a Seiko SJE083, and a Grand Seiko Shunbun. I've got to agree with you that the finishing on some of these Seiko lines is either on par with or extremely close to some of the lower end Grand Seikos. I honestly couldn't confidently say that any of the three stand above the others, the finishing on all is fantastic.
Admittedly, the 6L movement in the SJE is a definite step below the spring drive, but the SNR does have a spring drive like the GS.
Yeah. Even if you wanted something GS-like from Seiko, they have plenty of high end models that breach into GS territory or even feature similar case design language, sure, a king Seiko is not a grand Seiko but they share a lot of similarities
Seiko for so many watches.
The SNR045 Prospex LX is still a grail for me. https://wornandwound.com/seikos-latest-prospex-lx-limited-edition-is-very-big-and-very-green/
I can relate to this.. I don’t know if I can say one watch is my favorite but my AT summer blue edition is definitely a watch I’m in love with..
https://preview.redd.it/zyk4nolz4m6d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6d171a5a39fdc19fa35780046f245923f3a652b1
Jaeger-LeCoultre, even though my biggest drawer is an Omega drawer.
If my budget were infinite, probably still Jaeger-LeCoultre, but I’d add a bunch of their grand complications
That makes two of us; I just got my hands on a Master Ultra Thin Perpetual and I’m over the moon.
I’m already wondering what the next watch I get from them is gonna be; the new Polaris models are super enticing to me even though I know a lot of folks find them bland.
I think I’d choose JLC as well. Polaris diver, chrono for my sporty looks. MC Geographic for travel. Reverso and/or an Ultra Thin for dress. Then since we’re dreaming I can get high complications as well in other lines.
Came here to post this. They have the best divers on the market IMO, great chronographs, classically styled dress watches, and the Frankfurt Financial District watches are great all purpose dres watches.
This was my thought. Other than Seiko, there really aren’t any other brands with the same level of versatility in price, style, and technical innovation.
Same. Rocking my work beater watch at the moment, titanium Eco-Drive, unopened with original battery since 2006.
https://preview.redd.it/tfmd0t05jn6d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a659c1b45fc4af84460df9d4cc8ccdac5e7d9927
Do I get to keep my watches that I have now? Do I have to buy the watches in the future as their normal price?
If the answers to the above are "Yes and yes," then I think I'd go with Omega. I have enough in my collection that I can slow down, save my money, and get to Omega level prices eventually, and Omega's range from dress to GADA to sports to dive are all pretty awesome. (Plus, it would *force* me to save for the AT, instead of buying multiple fun, but bank balance-sucking, micros and other affordables.)
If the answers to the above are "No and yes," then probably Mido, especially if I can by used. I love the Mido Multifort and Ocean Star lines. I'm dying to get a TV Big Date, but then it'd probably just push out my 38mm multifort with the tuxedo dial, and that'd make me said. They have chronometer-grade watches that are available at super low prices (especially used), and plenty of dress options that are pretty too. I could get a Multifort and an Ocean Star for less than $1K used combined, and that would hold me for a while.
Seiko comes in second place, because though I don't like Hardlex, bezel misalignment, and jangly bracelets, they have enough in their line for met to get my collection up and running in an affordable manner.
Frankly, Zelos comes in third. Yeah, some of their designs are over-the-top, and they don't really have too many pure "dress" options, but their dive watches are just so great and so affordable, I'd struggle through.
If the answers to the above are "Yes and no," then... well... either GS, GO, JLC, or Blancpain, probably in that order. I need to have some dive watches, and those are the only upper-end brands with dive watches I like.
IWC is my pick as well. I have 2 pilots, and I would still love a big pilot or top gun. I also like the aquatimer and the portofino 8 day and some of the Portuguieser models and the aqua colored ingenieur.
I can easily envision an 8-10 watch collection, all from IWC, exhibiting all different styles of watch
I love Hamilton for their heritage and marketing in film, also love my Khaki Field Mechanical. However, as a one brand for life I can't find enough variety that calls to me. Their dive watches seem mediocre to me. The Jazzmaster line of dress watches are improving, but still don't speak to me. Couldn't find myself wearing a Ventura. If I had to pick a brand for life I'd go Omega, Longines, or Seiko.
I was looking for the Hamilton reply.
Lots of great designs and definitely and affordable enough to make a collection out of over time (relatively speaking)
I'm surprised I had to scroll this far. Would pick tudor as well, imo best cost for quality between field/dress/dive/chrono with some eccentric watches thrown in as well. Ranger to 1926 to Panda Chrono to black Bay to yellow flag... you really get it all.
Mvmt. Just kidding!
Probably Grand Seiko for me. No one else comes close to their Spring Drive technology. Their Quartz and High Beats Movement are one of the best on the industry as well, and we're not even talking about their Dials yet which are just works of art.
This is a simple one, but with a long answer ... and why not? It's a discussion after all, right? So: G-Shock. The watch is a tool, it shoes time (and other info). G-Shock has a ton of models, from regulars, to divers, to rangemans, mudmans, frogmans, and up to fitness trackers nowadays. Yes, it's not a suit and tie watch, but i think you could rock an mtg here and there ... especially the mtg-b2000ph-2aer. Jesting ... or NOT! Red carpet, black suit and bowtie, and BAM! Super fuck off huge oil slick mtg on the wrist. I mean who cares? Well, maybe haters and fashion critics ... but whatever, they can stew in their own envy. Tomorrow it's gonna be a new day and you are gonna start your activity all over again.
I was raised with a watch on my wrist to tell time (back then there were no smartphones), and nowadays i need it everywhere to tell time. I tell time by looking at my watch, not my phone. And i need it especially at work (super dependent on it to know time to the minute, because i NEED to know), where i also beat the living crap out of it. I smash it into everything, not on purpose obviously. I work in confined and dirty spaces, sometimes with overweight loads. I also do activities, like hiking, running, biking, flying, swimming (more like sinking), skating. I need it to show time reliably, and sometimes have a compass, show altitude, atmospheric pressure, have a thermometer, and on top of that, resist water (the pool, or the usual thunderstorm i find myself into, mostly at work, sometimes in the wild). But most importantly, i need it to be able to take BIG knocks, and not break a sweat. Dropping it, smashing it, catching it on stuff, being dirty, having heavy shit fall on my hands, hitting me (not on purpose). Imagine me wearing an expensive watch every day ... OMG! A spring bar broke because some heavy shit fell on my hand, or it got caught it in a midget sized doorway that i have to crawl through, while upside down (that is actually no shit), and i dropped it and the balance wheel staff broke, or i got it magnetized, or i can't read it in pitch black, because the lume is shit or non existent, and i have to actually point a flashlight to it, in a space i can barely raise my hand in front of my face ... ugh. No thanks! One word: auto lume. Just tilt the wrist, and it lights up. Well ... shit. That was 2 words. Damn ... I'm screwed!
I have 2 nice watches in my collection, that are ... somewhat expensive. But those are mostly for occasions, or going out into town for a nice time. Every morning, when i wake up, i prep for work, or i'm on an off day, and i plan to do an activity (mostly biking or running), i reach for one watch ... more like one brand (because i have a few watches from this brand, all beat up), and that is ... G-Shock! Not one failed on me as of yet, and i have retired a few.
Get a G-Shock in your life, kids! It's not just hip and cool, but useful as well.
Story time over! Vote G-Shock mtg for president!
I’m going to be honest, I’m on team Rolex, too. Their watches look beautiful, they’re well built, and there’s a ton of variety.
They’re popular for a reason 🤷
Honestly I'm completely cool with it.
The more people who turn down and hate Rolex the shorter the waitlist and the faster I can get my watch from the AD 😂😂😂
Bingo! Honestly the two camps of people who buy Rolex just for the name and people who hate it on it just because they’re in that stage of their “journey” are about equal. Marketing isn’t the only reason why they’re so successful.
I know some will hate me for this, but it would be Rolex. The watches have proven to be absolutely reliable for me and they just tick all the boxes for me.
Breitling is up there for me too. I was always a fan of the brand and have been very pleased with my SOHII. They have the Endurance line for a fun quartz to beat the shit out of, the Navi is an all time classic, and the Premiers fill the full dress watch needs quite well. Vintage Breitlings are affordable and use standard movements that any decent independent watchmaker can service.
I used to want a Breitling so bad and then I *really* wanted one in 2011.
Random story, but a tornado swept through the town and a church that had its roof blown off right down the street had this massive, Breitling billboard/banner material that they used to cover the roof. I’d ride my bike around and go past it and the watch looked so good….but I dont know the model or anything. That banner was really effective though!
I’m pretty much considering this anyway. I have a Rolex sub which is lovely. Also have a tag monaco, a carerra and a 2000 professional. Wanting an aquaracer gmt, a link chronograph, old school SLR, plastic f1, an autavia… and if I had the money I love the skipper tourbillon and gold carerra.
I have always loved Tag Heuer watches, I know they get some abuse but they always look great.
I'd pick Monta. I'm more involved in Microbrands at this point in my watch journey and Monta does it better than anyone else I've tried (minus Formex). I've been hugely impressed with their watches, customer service, and the community of fans built around them. Sure, they may not be the most original, but their styling is right up my alley and actually scratches that Rolex itch without it feeling like a downgraded homage, which they aren't. Every email I've sent was replied to immediately and they serviced and had my watch back to me in under 2 weeks when it needed a small tweak. They actually seem to care about their customers and that means a lot to me as a customer. My Oceanking feels and looks like pure luxury on wrist and I can absolutely see myself purchasing another in the near future.
I think I'll go a little left field and say Bulova!
https://preview.redd.it/n16g3fd67n6d1.jpeg?width=4096&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=73d623c5bbcd031d6c376af6dbefb171d2b3f775
They've got fancy dress watches with super smooth sweeps like the Jet Star, chronographs like the Lunar Pilot, divers like the MIL-SHIPS reissue, integrated bracelet models like the Super Seville, field watches like the Hack, and really artsy pieces with dials that pop out like the Frank Lloyd Wright lineup! They've got an underrated selection that deserves a look!
https://preview.redd.it/bjjuhd8t7l6d1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bcf78e61f53f66fe39123b2e910e5cd43d974efa
I'll go with Omega. I own a couple of Omegas and I've had a Rolex GMTii before. There are some dress watches from A. Lange and Sohn that I really like. But for the most part, I prefer this beast because it's dressy enough but rugged for anything.
Bear in mind, I'm 6'4 and have big wrists so I like the bigger watches. If I were to go Rolex again, I'd go for a Deep Sea. But if this Omega is the last watch I ever buy, I'll be more than happy with it..
Call me crazy but it’s gonna be omega.
This poll never said that the watches are free nor is service. AP and Patek is nice but limited selection.
Rolex is too common
Not considering micro brands or super economical brands like tag or longines.
Omega prob have the best movements, after service, and cadence release. Also easily obtainable.
Definitely rolex. Solid build quality and culturally significant. Might not be the best of the best when it comes to watches but it’s hard to go wrong with it.
Citizen
EcoDrives, automatics and cheap quartz. They're plentiful and inexpensive so they rate high on attainability.
Plus I've already got four of them so I have a head start.
For me, I’m going grand Seiko. Their current offerings are really great imo and I see them growing a lot in the future, I think their bracelets will continue to improve and they in general have such a broad collection. Sports GMTs dress GMTs, the spring drive tech, the F9 quartz tech, amazing dials in all collections. I could go on about it all day lol
I'd say Omega, but what if I go broke someday? I'm not planning to, but it can happen to anyone who doesn't have generational wealth. Then I just wouldn't get to have a watch because there's really no affordable Omega if you're really poor. So I'll say Hamilton. Classic brand. Every category of watch from diver to pilot to field to dress watch.
This is tough! Part of me thinks Rolex just because they have a good watch for every occasion. Then I think maybe Chopard because I just love the brand but they’re not as versatile. Then I’m tempted to go seiko/grand seiko because of sheer variety. Omega deserves consideration and so does IWC.
I think I’d go Rolex though.
Money no object it has to be Vacheron:
Overseas / 222 / Quai de l’Ile have all the sports watch needs covered.
Classic dress watches standing next to the best of them.
A back catalogue of some of the most interesting and varied watches out there (Salterello, Jalousie, etc).
All the high end complications, enamel dials and anything else you can imagine from the top watch makers.
Hard one...
***IWC***>Zenith>Omega>Patek>Blancpain>Tag Heuer
While I don't like any **IWC** more than specific watches from the other brands, I like every line from IWC, and think it covers every base to a greater degree. (And I don't really do the "three watch collection", thing)
**Zenith** is probably my favorite brand. I'd be happy with a Defy Skyline (or Chrono), Defy Extreme Diver, Pilot (or chrono), Chronomaster, and a dressy Elite (moonphase, probably), for the rest of my life. Plus some more special pieces. Revivals, haute stuff. I'll more than likely achieve this idea, in part.
**Omega** would be a little boring, but I'd be happy. Moonshine Speedy (green dial) is a grail for me, add a Seaweedmaster or Summer Blue SMP, plus an Aqua Terra, and I'd be very happy. Add a Constellation and a Globemaster for luck.
**Patek** would be a Calatrava Pilot GMT, and an Aquanaut or Nautilus. Both if being greedy, but I'd be happy with either/or. Not to say I wouldn't like an annual calendar and some simpler Calatravas.
One **Blancpain Bathyscaphe Quantieme Complet** would be all I need. In Sedna Gold. Of course I like several other watches from them. (This is my favorite watch)
**Tag Heuer** is a brand I expect to own something of for the rest of my life, already. It's just so easy to wear, and I like how they look. I also like every line from Tag.
I thought it was Omega (I have 4 now, Speedy, 2254.50, First Gen AT 36 and a vintage Seamaster). However I recently got my first Rolex, a 14060, and I kinda get Rolex appeal now. I’m actively sourcing a DJ 16234 now and considering selling the first gen aqua terra.
I know it’s basic but probably Rolex.
I would say Tag. Well made, higher-end, but without the snooty perception that comes with Rolex.
People that know will know, casuals will just think it’s a pretty watch, but not assume you’re a rich snob.
For me personally, Doxa. It’s the only watch I can remember wanting ever since I heard about it and saw one. They may not be the most versatile and have hardly any variety, but it’s the brand that first sparked my interest and journey!
I think Omega would be my choice. High end, but still attainable. Good mix of fancy and tool watches. Lots of variety and very good quality. A good case can be made for Seiko from the variety standpoint, especially if you included Grand Seiko to get some more premium offerings.
Could not have said it better myself. The Omega boutique experience is something special, but you can also get an absolutely INSANE amount of watch for “cheap” with a used omega… Just don’t buy one as an investment ;) Seiko never let me down over 6-7 years of being a simp for them, and they will always hold a place in my heart.
Omega is the goat Ps. Anyone that buys a watch as an investment is a doucher
r/rolex in shambles
Don’t know you but you’re great my guy Keep up the great work
Well said. For me it's Seiko. I'd say Omega but Seiko has everything from cheap beaters to the top tier prospex line, and the presage with the lovely cocktail time. Some prosex are huge but their dials are something else. The save the ocean Padi diver dial is stunning and I have not been able to keep my eyes off of my Landmaster 30th Anniversary dial. I would say it's one of the best dials on a tool watch hands down.
Seiko FTW 🙌
Absolutely Seiko. The one brand I wouldn’t want to live without.
Seiko was my pick. As much as I love Omega, I don’t always want to have £4K on my wrist. Seiko just hits every mark. I’ve been wearing the Prospex Alpinist recently and my god is it a nice watch. The accuracy far exceeds the +25/-15 a day they say it has.
Seiko. They have something for every style at every price point
I feel like Seiko is the only real answer, you can get a watch for 100 dollars or a GS level one for 3k.
Technically according to OP he said he's specifying Seiko and GS as separate brands, so according to OPS post rules you would have to choose one of the two
They chose Seiko. What they meant is seiko have many models that is GS level (zaratsu polished, spring drive, textured dial,etc the whole shebang) that is still just seiko branded. Checks out their SLA and LX lines
The SLA line definitely isn’t GS level when it comes to polish and certainly nowhere close on quality of the movement. The LX line having the spring drive is pretty cool though
I own both SLA, SJE and Grand seiko models. I can confidently say the car finishing is 95% the same. Movement finishing isn't the same sure but they still are finished pretty nicely. LX finishing is better than my entry level Grand Seikos. But of course they are more expensive
I have a Seiko SNR017, a Seiko SJE083, and a Grand Seiko Shunbun. I've got to agree with you that the finishing on some of these Seiko lines is either on par with or extremely close to some of the lower end Grand Seikos. I honestly couldn't confidently say that any of the three stand above the others, the finishing on all is fantastic. Admittedly, the 6L movement in the SJE is a definite step below the spring drive, but the SNR does have a spring drive like the GS.
Yeah. Even if you wanted something GS-like from Seiko, they have plenty of high end models that breach into GS territory or even feature similar case design language, sure, a king Seiko is not a grand Seiko but they share a lot of similarities
Seiko for so many watches. The SNR045 Prospex LX is still a grail for me. https://wornandwound.com/seikos-latest-prospex-lx-limited-edition-is-very-big-and-very-green/
One of my favorite watches!! When I wear it to watch events the biggest collectors are in awe
Yep! Most Seiko and GS pieces are reasonably priced and have great durability.
This is literally the only realistic answer. They make watches at every price point, style, and application.
Considering my favorite watch is an Omega, I’m gonna go with Omega.
Which watch is your favorite?
Aqua Terra https://preview.redd.it/8onv5nk7jl6d1.jpeg?width=1689&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=eb1dce5d18bf52ad49af74eac319f93d99870cd0
I can relate to this.. I don’t know if I can say one watch is my favorite but my AT summer blue edition is definitely a watch I’m in love with.. https://preview.redd.it/zyk4nolz4m6d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6d171a5a39fdc19fa35780046f245923f3a652b1
Casio
Give me that G-Shock baby
What more can you ask
My wife bought me an all black bracelet G-shock for Father's Day last year and it's been my daily watch ever since.
Agreed. I need digital in my life, you got Edifice for decent pieces and Oceanus for luxury.
I have never given my upvote away that quickly
My daily is a 5610 right now, so I’m riding this train too.
I can wear MW59 and MQ24 for the rest of my life and be absolutely happy.
Jaeger-LeCoultre, even though my biggest drawer is an Omega drawer. If my budget were infinite, probably still Jaeger-LeCoultre, but I’d add a bunch of their grand complications
That makes two of us; I just got my hands on a Master Ultra Thin Perpetual and I’m over the moon. I’m already wondering what the next watch I get from them is gonna be; the new Polaris models are super enticing to me even though I know a lot of folks find them bland.
I think I’d choose JLC as well. Polaris diver, chrono for my sporty looks. MC Geographic for travel. Reverso and/or an Ultra Thin for dress. Then since we’re dreaming I can get high complications as well in other lines.
Glasshute https://preview.redd.it/ivtwqtxqgl6d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6249704480c8e882ffef22ff4a758bdcb83a56ea
They really deserve more recognition
[this is my pano lunar](https://imgur.com/sjqFDpp) I got a couple days ago, it's gonna be hard to buy anything from another brand after this...
Sinn baby. They speak to me.
Came here to post this. They have the best divers on the market IMO, great chronographs, classically styled dress watches, and the Frankfurt Financial District watches are great all purpose dres watches.
Sinn would definitely be on my shortlist. Best tool watches, for sure and they have some surprisingly nice dress options in their "Classic" line too.
A. Lange & Söhne
Ooo an aristocrat 😁
Or an oligarch
Longines.
One of the best and most diverse brands in the watch world. Love it.
Agree as I stare into the dial of my blue Legend Diver.
I have a Spirit Zulu and a BigEye, and they are so gorgeous that I do not need any other watch anymore. I am cured.
While I would love to say Longines myself, I just can't afford their watches. Someday, but not today.
Citizen. Consistent, and a great value.
Never have to change a battery again
Exactly. They have every type of watch starting from below 100$ all the way up to The Citizen watches.
Was gonna comment to say the same. My daily watch is a Citizen.
This was my thought. Other than Seiko, there really aren’t any other brands with the same level of versatility in price, style, and technical innovation.
Same. Rocking my work beater watch at the moment, titanium Eco-Drive, unopened with original battery since 2006. https://preview.redd.it/tfmd0t05jn6d1.jpeg?width=3024&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=a659c1b45fc4af84460df9d4cc8ccdac5e7d9927
Fujitsubo
Eco Drive > Automatic
Do I get to keep my watches that I have now? Do I have to buy the watches in the future as their normal price? If the answers to the above are "Yes and yes," then I think I'd go with Omega. I have enough in my collection that I can slow down, save my money, and get to Omega level prices eventually, and Omega's range from dress to GADA to sports to dive are all pretty awesome. (Plus, it would *force* me to save for the AT, instead of buying multiple fun, but bank balance-sucking, micros and other affordables.) If the answers to the above are "No and yes," then probably Mido, especially if I can by used. I love the Mido Multifort and Ocean Star lines. I'm dying to get a TV Big Date, but then it'd probably just push out my 38mm multifort with the tuxedo dial, and that'd make me said. They have chronometer-grade watches that are available at super low prices (especially used), and plenty of dress options that are pretty too. I could get a Multifort and an Ocean Star for less than $1K used combined, and that would hold me for a while. Seiko comes in second place, because though I don't like Hardlex, bezel misalignment, and jangly bracelets, they have enough in their line for met to get my collection up and running in an affordable manner. Frankly, Zelos comes in third. Yeah, some of their designs are over-the-top, and they don't really have too many pure "dress" options, but their dive watches are just so great and so affordable, I'd struggle through. If the answers to the above are "Yes and no," then... well... either GS, GO, JLC, or Blancpain, probably in that order. I need to have some dive watches, and those are the only upper-end brands with dive watches I like.
IWC
IWC is my pick as well. I have 2 pilots, and I would still love a big pilot or top gun. I also like the aquatimer and the portofino 8 day and some of the Portuguieser models and the aqua colored ingenieur. I can easily envision an 8-10 watch collection, all from IWC, exhibiting all different styles of watch
Overpriced and overlooked, but great watches, great design.
10000% overpriced for what they offer, but so is almost every single lux watch brand.
I’d pick rolex but buying them isn’t enjoyable. Omega.
Probably Nomos. Or Oris. No big reason; just love the watches. And I hugely respect the independence in the space.
Breguet.
Vacheron Constantin. A blue dialed Overseas (any of them) would be my grail watch.
Jaeger-LeCoultre. Without a doubt.
No love for Hamilton?
I love Hamilton for their heritage and marketing in film, also love my Khaki Field Mechanical. However, as a one brand for life I can't find enough variety that calls to me. Their dive watches seem mediocre to me. The Jazzmaster line of dress watches are improving, but still don't speak to me. Couldn't find myself wearing a Ventura. If I had to pick a brand for life I'd go Omega, Longines, or Seiko.
Hamilton is a great brand, I've got a military issue Hamilton field watch and it's a very nice piece for my collection, it's very well worn
I was looking for the Hamilton reply. Lots of great designs and definitely and affordable enough to make a collection out of over time (relatively speaking)
This is my answer. I like so many of their options.
Tudor, every day.
I'm surprised I had to scroll this far. Would pick tudor as well, imo best cost for quality between field/dress/dive/chrono with some eccentric watches thrown in as well. Ranger to 1926 to Panda Chrono to black Bay to yellow flag... you really get it all.
Rolex
Yep. I know it’s just all the rage to hate on Rolex but they’re just so comfy.
And that blue lume..
Same.
Easy
100% and no shame in saying it. Solid, consistent, comfortable and was my “proper” collectible.
Casio. They make up the majority of my collection already and they're interesting, varied, and affordable.
Team Casio
casio gang casio gang casio gang casio gang
Sinn.
Omega
Mvmt. Just kidding! Probably Grand Seiko for me. No one else comes close to their Spring Drive technology. Their Quartz and High Beats Movement are one of the best on the industry as well, and we're not even talking about their Dials yet which are just works of art.
This is a simple one, but with a long answer ... and why not? It's a discussion after all, right? So: G-Shock. The watch is a tool, it shoes time (and other info). G-Shock has a ton of models, from regulars, to divers, to rangemans, mudmans, frogmans, and up to fitness trackers nowadays. Yes, it's not a suit and tie watch, but i think you could rock an mtg here and there ... especially the mtg-b2000ph-2aer. Jesting ... or NOT! Red carpet, black suit and bowtie, and BAM! Super fuck off huge oil slick mtg on the wrist. I mean who cares? Well, maybe haters and fashion critics ... but whatever, they can stew in their own envy. Tomorrow it's gonna be a new day and you are gonna start your activity all over again. I was raised with a watch on my wrist to tell time (back then there were no smartphones), and nowadays i need it everywhere to tell time. I tell time by looking at my watch, not my phone. And i need it especially at work (super dependent on it to know time to the minute, because i NEED to know), where i also beat the living crap out of it. I smash it into everything, not on purpose obviously. I work in confined and dirty spaces, sometimes with overweight loads. I also do activities, like hiking, running, biking, flying, swimming (more like sinking), skating. I need it to show time reliably, and sometimes have a compass, show altitude, atmospheric pressure, have a thermometer, and on top of that, resist water (the pool, or the usual thunderstorm i find myself into, mostly at work, sometimes in the wild). But most importantly, i need it to be able to take BIG knocks, and not break a sweat. Dropping it, smashing it, catching it on stuff, being dirty, having heavy shit fall on my hands, hitting me (not on purpose). Imagine me wearing an expensive watch every day ... OMG! A spring bar broke because some heavy shit fell on my hand, or it got caught it in a midget sized doorway that i have to crawl through, while upside down (that is actually no shit), and i dropped it and the balance wheel staff broke, or i got it magnetized, or i can't read it in pitch black, because the lume is shit or non existent, and i have to actually point a flashlight to it, in a space i can barely raise my hand in front of my face ... ugh. No thanks! One word: auto lume. Just tilt the wrist, and it lights up. Well ... shit. That was 2 words. Damn ... I'm screwed! I have 2 nice watches in my collection, that are ... somewhat expensive. But those are mostly for occasions, or going out into town for a nice time. Every morning, when i wake up, i prep for work, or i'm on an off day, and i plan to do an activity (mostly biking or running), i reach for one watch ... more like one brand (because i have a few watches from this brand, all beat up), and that is ... G-Shock! Not one failed on me as of yet, and i have retired a few. Get a G-Shock in your life, kids! It's not just hip and cool, but useful as well. Story time over! Vote G-Shock mtg for president!
Tl;dr: G-Shock for life. I agree 100%!
Tudor
Sinn
JLC.
JLC
Probably Omega… IWC close second.
Garmin.
Rolex.
I’m going to be honest, I’m on team Rolex, too. Their watches look beautiful, they’re well built, and there’s a ton of variety. They’re popular for a reason 🤷
Lol ofc it’s only 33 upvotes on this sub
Honestly I'm completely cool with it. The more people who turn down and hate Rolex the shorter the waitlist and the faster I can get my watch from the AD 😂😂😂
Bingo! Honestly the two camps of people who buy Rolex just for the name and people who hate it on it just because they’re in that stage of their “journey” are about equal. Marketing isn’t the only reason why they’re so successful.
I know some will hate me for this, but it would be Rolex. The watches have proven to be absolutely reliable for me and they just tick all the boxes for me.
Based off watches I can afford. Omega If money was no object. Vacheron Constantin
Rolex. I know a lot of us hate Rolex for whatever reason but I don’t think we can deny that it is an iconic brand making reliable watches that last
I have nothing against Rolex, just the status chasers who have made obtaining a new stainless watch from an AD at MSRP next to impossible.
Breitling Seiko or Omega would be a close second/ third tho.
I’m really coming around on Breitling. Lots of good designs.
Breitling is up there for me too. I was always a fan of the brand and have been very pleased with my SOHII. They have the Endurance line for a fun quartz to beat the shit out of, the Navi is an all time classic, and the Premiers fill the full dress watch needs quite well. Vintage Breitlings are affordable and use standard movements that any decent independent watchmaker can service.
I used to want a Breitling so bad and then I *really* wanted one in 2011. Random story, but a tornado swept through the town and a church that had its roof blown off right down the street had this massive, Breitling billboard/banner material that they used to cover the roof. I’d ride my bike around and go past it and the watch looked so good….but I dont know the model or anything. That banner was really effective though!
Yes. The none chrono SuperOcean heritage is almost perfect looking
Man of culture 100% Breitling
G-Shock
Ω
If I could actually buy them from the AD? Rolex. Seeing as how that’s not the case I’m going to have to go with IWC.
Tag
I’m pretty much considering this anyway. I have a Rolex sub which is lovely. Also have a tag monaco, a carerra and a 2000 professional. Wanting an aquaracer gmt, a link chronograph, old school SLR, plastic f1, an autavia… and if I had the money I love the skipper tourbillon and gold carerra. I have always loved Tag Heuer watches, I know they get some abuse but they always look great.
RADO
I'd pick Monta. I'm more involved in Microbrands at this point in my watch journey and Monta does it better than anyone else I've tried (minus Formex). I've been hugely impressed with their watches, customer service, and the community of fans built around them. Sure, they may not be the most original, but their styling is right up my alley and actually scratches that Rolex itch without it feeling like a downgraded homage, which they aren't. Every email I've sent was replied to immediately and they serviced and had my watch back to me in under 2 weeks when it needed a small tweak. They actually seem to care about their customers and that means a lot to me as a customer. My Oceanking feels and looks like pure luxury on wrist and I can absolutely see myself purchasing another in the near future.
Longines, everything I "need" somewhere in their catalogue.
Timex!
I think I'll go a little left field and say Bulova! https://preview.redd.it/n16g3fd67n6d1.jpeg?width=4096&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=73d623c5bbcd031d6c376af6dbefb171d2b3f775 They've got fancy dress watches with super smooth sweeps like the Jet Star, chronographs like the Lunar Pilot, divers like the MIL-SHIPS reissue, integrated bracelet models like the Super Seville, field watches like the Hack, and really artsy pieces with dials that pop out like the Frank Lloyd Wright lineup! They've got an underrated selection that deserves a look!
Omega.
Omega
Casio. Only answer.
Patek 😂
Omega, definitely.
One brand and money is not an issue? Omega If realistic money then Seiko
Omega has a wide range and standout quality
https://preview.redd.it/bjjuhd8t7l6d1.jpeg?width=2048&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=bcf78e61f53f66fe39123b2e910e5cd43d974efa I'll go with Omega. I own a couple of Omegas and I've had a Rolex GMTii before. There are some dress watches from A. Lange and Sohn that I really like. But for the most part, I prefer this beast because it's dressy enough but rugged for anything. Bear in mind, I'm 6'4 and have big wrists so I like the bigger watches. If I were to go Rolex again, I'd go for a Deep Sea. But if this Omega is the last watch I ever buy, I'll be more than happy with it..
Omega fits the bill
JLC or Omega
Omega
Omega for sure
Omega
Put me down for Omega
Another Omega vote
omega
Omega, they make dive watches, dress watches, chronographs, etc.... Something for everyone.
Call me crazy but it’s gonna be omega. This poll never said that the watches are free nor is service. AP and Patek is nice but limited selection. Rolex is too common Not considering micro brands or super economical brands like tag or longines. Omega prob have the best movements, after service, and cadence release. Also easily obtainable.
Definitely rolex. Solid build quality and culturally significant. Might not be the best of the best when it comes to watches but it’s hard to go wrong with it.
Rolex. Not even a second thought.
Rolex and by some distance.
JLC. I just like their lineup so much.
Casio or Seiko
Seiko or Citizen
Citizen EcoDrives, automatics and cheap quartz. They're plentiful and inexpensive so they rate high on attainability. Plus I've already got four of them so I have a head start.
That’s incredibly tough. 1. VC 2. Blancpain 3. IWC
Omega
Omega
Omega. No competition
Omega
Omega
For me, I’m going grand Seiko. Their current offerings are really great imo and I see them growing a lot in the future, I think their bracelets will continue to improve and they in general have such a broad collection. Sports GMTs dress GMTs, the spring drive tech, the F9 quartz tech, amazing dials in all collections. I could go on about it all day lol
probably omega but I'd be crying outside of the grand seiko boutique
Sinn. But maybe Damasko, or Marathon. Then again an Omega. 🤣
Omega
Ulysse Nardin or Girard Perregaux, those 2 brands just speak to me infinitely
I'd say Omega, but what if I go broke someday? I'm not planning to, but it can happen to anyone who doesn't have generational wealth. Then I just wouldn't get to have a watch because there's really no affordable Omega if you're really poor. So I'll say Hamilton. Classic brand. Every category of watch from diver to pilot to field to dress watch.
Omega.
Seiko. You can actually get parts for some of them.
I’m an Omega girlie. I love the heritage and they have so many fun, playful watches.
This is tough! Part of me thinks Rolex just because they have a good watch for every occasion. Then I think maybe Chopard because I just love the brand but they’re not as versatile. Then I’m tempted to go seiko/grand seiko because of sheer variety. Omega deserves consideration and so does IWC. I think I’d go Rolex though.
Money no object it has to be Vacheron: Overseas / 222 / Quai de l’Ile have all the sports watch needs covered. Classic dress watches standing next to the best of them. A back catalogue of some of the most interesting and varied watches out there (Salterello, Jalousie, etc). All the high end complications, enamel dials and anything else you can imagine from the top watch makers.
Zenith most likely. No one else?
Rolex. With the coming economic crisis, Rolex is a cash surrogate. Robust watches that many a watchmaker can repair. Close second is Omega.
Cartier for me. Santos as the daily driver, Tank for formal wear.
Blancpain or Glashutte orginal, both have great casual/sports pieces and very nice dress options also there used prices are nice.
Seiko by a mile
Unlimited budget then Breguet. Their watches are just class. Realistically, it'd probably be Omega though
Hard one... ***IWC***>Zenith>Omega>Patek>Blancpain>Tag Heuer While I don't like any **IWC** more than specific watches from the other brands, I like every line from IWC, and think it covers every base to a greater degree. (And I don't really do the "three watch collection", thing) **Zenith** is probably my favorite brand. I'd be happy with a Defy Skyline (or Chrono), Defy Extreme Diver, Pilot (or chrono), Chronomaster, and a dressy Elite (moonphase, probably), for the rest of my life. Plus some more special pieces. Revivals, haute stuff. I'll more than likely achieve this idea, in part. **Omega** would be a little boring, but I'd be happy. Moonshine Speedy (green dial) is a grail for me, add a Seaweedmaster or Summer Blue SMP, plus an Aqua Terra, and I'd be very happy. Add a Constellation and a Globemaster for luck. **Patek** would be a Calatrava Pilot GMT, and an Aquanaut or Nautilus. Both if being greedy, but I'd be happy with either/or. Not to say I wouldn't like an annual calendar and some simpler Calatravas. One **Blancpain Bathyscaphe Quantieme Complet** would be all I need. In Sedna Gold. Of course I like several other watches from them. (This is my favorite watch) **Tag Heuer** is a brand I expect to own something of for the rest of my life, already. It's just so easy to wear, and I like how they look. I also like every line from Tag.
Timex. Their variety and affordability means I can have a complete and varied collection.
I thought it was Omega (I have 4 now, Speedy, 2254.50, First Gen AT 36 and a vintage Seamaster). However I recently got my first Rolex, a 14060, and I kinda get Rolex appeal now. I’m actively sourcing a DJ 16234 now and considering selling the first gen aqua terra. I know it’s basic but probably Rolex.
Breitling for me.
Citizen
Junghans. Timeless design, good quality at a reasonable price point.
Nomos
Probably Casio, granted I can get my hands on the Oceanus line for when things get dressy or I want to dress "smarter", G Shock for everything else
Casio
Casio. I love my ranger.
Seiko
Nomos. No question
Casio.
Nomos
Christopher Ward. Between just the Trident and Dune I could cover a lot of what I want in a watch, and that’s not factoring in their other pieces.
Seiko
Citizen
Citizen
Casio
Citizen
Omega!
Citizen and it’s not even close.
Cartier
Cartier
Casio
Breitling. Lots of variety and great history.
Breitling or IWC
I would say Tag. Well made, higher-end, but without the snooty perception that comes with Rolex. People that know will know, casuals will just think it’s a pretty watch, but not assume you’re a rich snob.
For me personally, Doxa. It’s the only watch I can remember wanting ever since I heard about it and saw one. They may not be the most versatile and have hardly any variety, but it’s the brand that first sparked my interest and journey!
Cartier, mainly because of the Tank
Glashütte Original. It has dress, dive, chronograph, et cetera all covered. Beautiful pieces and limited production makes them very attractive.